Promoting Community-Based Food Independence, Zulhas Takes This Step
Jakarta, CNBC Indonesia - Coordinating Minister for Food Affairs Zulkifli Hasan conducted a pilgrimage to the grave of the fourth President KH. Abdurrahman Wahid in the Tebu Ireng Pesantren area. This visit also served as part of fostering relations with pesantren leaders in discussing the strengthening of national food resilience.
The pilgrimage became a reflective moment that fulfilling food needs is not only related to production aspects but also concerns humanistic values and concern for the community. These values are considered relevant in strengthening inclusive and just food policies.
On that occasion, Zulhas met with the Caretaker of Tebu Ireng Pesantren, KH. Abdul Hakim Mahfudz.
He emphasised that pesantrens have a strategic role in promoting community-based food independence, among others through education, economic empowerment, and strengthening mutual cooperation values in society. These efforts align with the strengthening of pesantren empowerment programmes in the food sector.
In addition, the government is also encouraging the acceleration of the implementation of the Free Nutritious Meals Programme (MBG) in pesantren environments as part of efforts to meet santri nutrition while strengthening the food ecosystem.
“We are still and will continue to accelerate the implementation of MBG in pesantrens, as part of efforts to meet santri nutrition and strengthen food resilience,” he said, quoted on Saturday (11/4/2026).
Zulhas also highlighted the importance of strengthening national food resilience amid global dynamics, including geopolitical tensions that could potentially affect the food supply chain.
“In a global situation full of uncertainty, we must strengthen national food independence. The government cannot go alone; it needs synergy with ulama and society,” he added.
He hopes this visit can further strengthen collaboration between the government and pesantrens in building a resilient, inclusive food system capable of facing various global challenges.